Mimosa
This bowl came from the side of our community lake. Technically Mimosa is considered a “Trash” tree and is super fast growing and just makes a mess with leaves and seed pods. I like the look of Mimosa as it has a contemporary feel with its large growth rings. This bowl was turned very fresh. It now resides in Tokyo, Japan. It is about 10 inches in diameter and 8 inches tall.
Orange Osage
During this time period I began experimenting with surface effects. In this case I used the chisel to create many horizontal lines in the wood while the bowl was on the lathe turning. I really liked how the grooves added to the natural grain. this was turned on the Jet 12/36 Lathe
Maple Rim with Paduck Body
My assumption is #1 through #4 where just not presentable. I remember both Allison and I were caught off guard by how nice this small bowl was. It’s about 3 inches high by 5 inches wide. Turned on the old Shop Smith Lathe.
Two weeks ago Allison’s uncle Joe called from Knoxville to let me know he had come across a fresh walnut tree that had just been cut. Even better was the fact that I was travelling to Knoxville on business. I took the big car.
I now have some very nice Walnut logs that will yield 12-13 inch Diameter bowls. Pictures to follow.
Today I had a friend of a friend contact me to let me know that their community had to take down a large Red Maple to do some sewer repairs.
Large was not exactly what I would have said….the main trunk was over 3 feet thick!!! I did haul off a couple of sections of smaller stuff but did call in reinforcements for tomorrow…..Chainsaw and Truck, here we go!
As mentioned, I started turning with what I had, a 1950 Shop Smith all in one machine. It worked, sort of (more…)
The splendid glazed pattern is a natural phenomenon, made by wood boring critters over history. The texture and appearance has been preserved for your enjoyment. 
A few years ago, I began building guitar-style dulcimers that found their way into art galleries. While all well and good, my occupation became more and more demanding (all well and good too!) and I found I had less and less time to work on the dulcimers.
I know myself. So, when the dulcimers were going to take three months to build instead of one, I knew I would quickly lose interest. I began thinking about what I could creatively accomplish in a few hours instead of a few months.
I had an old ShopSmith (I mean really old – 1950 vintage) and a lathe was one of the many tools it could transform into – a lathe of many compromises, but a lathe all the same. After a few frustrating attempts and a few lessons, I realized it was time to sell the ShopSmith and get a real lathe. I am very happy I did.
So, since late summer of 2007, I have been turning wooden bowls. For better or worse, a lot of family and friends now get bowls instead of real gifts for all special occasions.
I wish to thank Bob Keller, Bob Grant and Allison for opening the door and welcoming me into the wonderful world of whirling wood. The photo gallery has a selection from start to current. If you see something you like, just click on “contact me†to send an e-mail to me.
Thanks,
Jeff
Jeff Weigant (1952-2016) fondly known as Jeff, the woodguy, was cherished by many. This archive showcases a selection of his artful creations, celebrating his remarkable talent.